Slate News

Neil Irwin, a senior economics reporter at Axios and a Fed expert, joins the discussion to dive into the surprising dynamics of a recent Fed meeting marked by unusual dissent. He elaborates on the impact of Trump appointee Stephen Miran and the implications for Fed independence. The conversation shifts to rising premium credit card fees, exploring why financial institutions are targeting status-conscious consumers. Lastly, they touch on the alarming bankruptcy of Publishers Clearing House, leaving past winners in a precarious situation regarding their promised payouts.

Mary Anne Franks, a First Amendment and civil rights law professor at George Washington University, delves into the complexities of free speech in America. She highlights how free speech absolutism paradoxically undermines dissent, using recent cases like Charlie Kirk's to illustrate power's manipulation of free speech rhetoric. Franks also discusses the intertwining of technology, media, and governmental influence, exploring how these factors have muddled public discourse and led to a troubling erosion of First Amendment principles.

Ryan Broderick, a reporter on online culture and author of the newsletter Garbage Day, dives into the chaotic virality of the Charlie Kirk killing. He explores how footage spread like wildfire, igniting conspiracy theories and confusion among investigators. Broderick delves into the troubling history of meme-linked violence and highlights the institutional blind spots that hinder law enforcement and media from effectively responding to internet-driven events. The conversation shines a light on the urgent need for better internet fluency in today’s interconnected world.

This week, Michael Schaefer, host of CityCast DC and Politico columnist, joins the conversation to delve into Washington, D.C.'s evolving political landscape. They discuss the chilling effects of intimidation tactics following Charlie Kirk’s assassination and explore the U.S. military's actions regarding Venezuela. Schaefer highlights significant changes in D.C. governance, including economic cuts and legislative maneuvers affecting local powers. The dialogue is both insightful and urgent, showcasing the complex interplay of local and national politics.

In this engaging discussion, economist Justin Wolfers from the University of Michigan dives into the recent Federal Reserve rate cut and its implications for the struggling economy. He highlights the risks of rising unemployment and potential stagflation. Wolfers also breaks down how tariffs and erratic policies are undermining economic confidence and disrupting e-commerce. Additionally, he sheds light on the impact of cronyism on startups and the broader costs associated with populism. It's a thought-provoking analysis of the current economic landscape.

Quinta Jurecic, a staff writer at The Atlantic, explores the turmoil within the FBI as leadership undergoes drastic changes. She discusses the implications of appointing leaders based on loyalty rather than capability, raising concerns about the agency's effectiveness. The conversation reveals how shifts in focus, particularly towards immigration over critical investigations, frustrate agents. Jurecic also examines the public’s perception of the FBI amidst political strife, questioning the integrity and future of the Bureau under current pressures.

Sarah Brown, Senior Editor at the Chronicle of Higher Education, brings her expertise on academic freedom and funding challenges in higher ed. She discusses the chilling effects of the Trump administration on colleges, including federal funding cuts and political pressures. The conversation dives into the impact of government initiatives on historically marginalized institutions, the controversies around gender policies at elite universities, and the broader implications of these dynamics on academic discourse and institutional governance.

Gary Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of "AI Valley," dives deep into the competitive world of AI tech giants. He discusses the fierce race among companies like Microsoft and Google to create the most profitable AI models. Rivlin explores the challenges AI startups face in attracting talent against bigger players and reflects on the emotional connections users develop with AI. He balances differing perspectives—from techno-optimism to skepticism—highlighting the ethical implications and future of AI in our lives.

In a gripping discussion, Hasan Piker reflects on the legacy of Charlie Kirk following his untimely death. They explore the emotional fallout from recent political tragedies and the impact on activism. The conversation also critiques how social media fuels political propaganda, particularly among the youth. Piker delves into the complexities of radicalization in online culture, discussing the troubling connections between internet behavior and real-world violence. The episode concludes with insights on the contradictions within modern political narratives.

Laura Reiley, a writer for the Cornell Chronicle and grieving mother, shares her heartbreaking journey after the loss of her daughter, Sophie. They discovered Sophie’s ChatGPT logs, revealing how AI assisted her in writing a suicide note. The conversation delves into the allure of digital confidants versus human support, critiquing AI's shortcomings in providing emotional help. Reiley discusses the ethical implications of using chatbots for mental health and emphasizes the need for responsible usage alongside human intervention.